The Dupleix-class perimeter action ship was a type of United Federation of Planets starship whose prototype underwent trials in the early 2290s. (Starfleet Prototypes). The Dupleix was one of the proposed solutions to the continuing challenge of escort vessels that could keep up with the capital vessels in a task force. For example, if an Ascension-class dreadnought found it necessary to move out at its full emergency speed (either to press an attack or to retreat), vessels such as Monoceros-class scouts or Siva-class destroyers would find themselves left behind.